32 Chapter 32

Ruth pointed at the steep hill outside the window. Maxi's eyes went round. She was naturally familiar with the legend of Wigrew, to whom God had granted a holy sword to end the war against darkness. The hero had united the western realms under the banner of the Roemian Empire before ascending to the heavens. He was a regular feature in every child's bedtime story, and countless bards and artists had immortalized the scene of Wigrew flying into the sky on a white dragon.

Maxi's eyes sparkled with wonder at the knowledge that the legendary place was right before her.

"Is the l-legend really t-true?"

"Anatolians believe so, though there's no historical evidence," said Ruth.

"B-But what does th-that have to d-do with oak t-trees?"

"The story goes that Wigrew fell in love with the nymph of the oak tree. Anatolians believe that the nymph is still waiting for his return. Every spring festival, all the maidens go to the hills to sing songs of praise for the nymph's love."